Germany
clinched the top spot in Group A of
Euro 2024
after
Niclas Fuellkrug
scored a crucial equaliser in stoppage time, securing a 1-1 draw against
Switzerland
on Sunday. This result continued Germany's strong form as they progress to the last-16 stage.
The Swiss team had taken the lead in the first half through a goal by forward Dan Ndoye, threatening to upset the home crowd.
However, Germany, who had already guaranteed their place in the knockout rounds before the match began, persevered and maintained their seven-game unbeaten streak dating back to November. Fuellkrug's header finally brought the equaliser, much to the relief of the German supporters.
Germany had a goal disallowed and multiple penalty appeals turned down by the Italian referee, Daniele Orsato. Despite the frustration, the home side continued to press forward, attempting 18 shots on goal in a highly charged atmosphere at the stadium in Frankfurt.
The draw prevented Switzerland from securing what would have been only their second victory over Germany in 22 competitive matches since 1959. However, the Swiss team's progression to the last-16 is also assured.
With seven points from their three group matches, Germany sit atop the standings, holding a two-point lead over Switzerland. Meanwhile, Hungary, who have three points, must await the results of other groups to determine if they will progress as one of the best third-placed teams, following their 1-0 victory over the eliminated Scotland, who finished with one point.
"Of course, we would have liked to win the game and to play great
football
," Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan said. "But I think you also need games like that during a tournament. And that can also be a real strength for the next games, hopefully."
Germany believed they had taken the lead in the 17th minute when Robert Andrich's long-range effort from 30 yards out surprisingly beat Switzerland's goalkeeper Yann Sommer at his near post. However, Sommer's embarrassment was alleviated when the goal was disallowed due to a foul committed by Jamal Musiala.
Contrary to expectations, it was Switzerland who found the back of the net just before the 30-minute mark. Musiala was dispossessed in midfield, and when Remo Freuler received the ball on the left side of the penalty area, his low cross was emphatically converted into the roof of the net by Ndoye.
Germany, playing on their home turf, created a plethora of opportunities as they dominated possession in the Swiss half. However, after Kai Havertz squandered several chances, it was Fuellkrug who rose above the defense to head in David Raum's cross in the 92nd minute, ensuring that Germany maintained their unbeaten record in their home championship.
"I think when you see the Germans celebrating, we can be proud of ourselves," Swiss captain Granit Xhaka told SRF. "It's not easy against a team like that. Nevertheless, the late equaliser hurts.
"Everyone fought for each other and ran for each other. We have to push ourselves to the limit. Then we can beat anyone. We have taken the first step and are now looking forward to the round of 16."
Julian Nagelsmann, the coach of Germany, selected an unchanged starting lineup for the third consecutive match. However, he will need to make at least one alteration for the round of 16 due to Jonathan Tah receiving his second yellow card of the group stage, resulting in a suspension.
It is uncertain if Havertz's performance was sufficient to secure his place in the starting eleven. Germany appeared more menacing when Fuellkrug was introduced, and he proceeded to score his 13th goal for the national team in his 19th appearance, despite only starting six of those matches.
English (US) ·